Be a part of the grand re-opening of Murphy Center when the Middle Tennessee men's and women's basketball teams participate in "Murphy Madness" Thursday.

Murphy Madness will serve as a basketball tip-off celebration for the 2014-15 seasons and showcase the $12 million renovations to the historic Murphy Center, as well as highlighting both Blue Raider basketball teams. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. with trunk-or-treat for youngsters on the concourse.

Athletic Director Chris Massaro tells NewsRadio WGNS it's an opportunity for fans to get a first-hand look at the outstanding renovations to Murphy Center and to enjoy the fresh look with the new lighting and sound system and the upgrades that have been made concession and restroom areas.

An explosive entrance involving the basketball teams begins at 6 p.m. inside Murphy Center so be sure to be in your seats to be a part of the excitement.

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What to expect:
Trick-or-Treat on the concourse from 5:30-6 p.m.
Fans will have an opportunity to select their seats for the season
Activities involving students and supporters are planned throughout the evening
Three-point shooting competition
The Blue Raiders and Lady Raiders will also combine rosters for a unique blue-white scrimmage
First Tennessee Bank sponsored moneyball shootout where one lucky fan will have a chance to win up to $500
Special presentations planned throughout the evening

Both basketball teams are the defending C-USA champions and have several new faces on their 2014-15 roster so the event will also afford fans the opportunity to familiarize themselves with players on both programs.

Coaches with both teams have been impressed with the renovations during preseason practices and are excited for their teams to take the court in this setting in front of fans.

"We are all excited about the aesthetic look and the fan experience these renovations are going to make," Blue Raider Head Coach Kermit Davis said. "Our players are excited about Murphy Madness and the chance to meet the fans in a laid-back atmosphere before the season starts. Murphy Center is a great facility and these upgrades only make it better."

Lady Raider Head Coach Rick Insell said Murphy Madness is the perfect way to celebrate the renovations with fans and players from both teams interacting.

"The new look and the lighting is just incredible," Lady Raider Head Coach Rick Insell said. "Fans are going to love it. We were not on the main floor throughout the summer so when I came up the ramp and into the arena for the first time two weeks ago I got chill bumps.

"This is an opening ceremony so to speak and fans will not want to miss some of the things we have planned. They will want to get there early so they want miss any of the surprises or action."